Tales of sea monsters have played a colourful role in Icelandic folk culture for centuries. Today, these elusive creatures have a worthy home at the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum, located in the village of Bildudalur on the shores of Arnarfjörður. Even though sea monster sightings have been reported from various locations in Iceland, Arnarfjörður tops the list. Sea monsters truly like it here!
Discvoer first-hand accounts from eye-witnesses and read on-screen academic theories on the nature of sea monsters. You can also view is a display on a variety of relics and artifacts. These objects relate to the mysterious branch of crypto-zoology as tangible evidence for the sea monsters’ existence.
According to the Icelandic folklore, four species of sea monsters are local to Iceland. The first monster is known as fjörulalli (the Shore Laddie). The next is hafmaður (the Merman) and the third is skeljaskrímsli (the shell monster). The final monster is faxaskrímsli (the combed monster / sea horse). A lively mix of text, images and videos describes the distinctive features and character of each of these creatures. Additionally, young and old visitors alike can enjoy hunting for sea monsters at the one-of-a-kind interactive table placed at the center of the museum.
And to feed “monster” appetites, the museum cafeteria offers a range of light refreshments and snacks.
Opening hours of the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum
15th May – 15th September: Daily 10 am – 18 (6 pm)
Rest of the year: Upon request
Where is the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum?
The museum is located in Bildudalur, in the Westfjords, about 2 hours drive from Ísafjörður.
